Australia’s Massive Bash League (BBL) is introducing a brand new designated batter and fielder rule for the 2026-27 season.
Groups could have the choice to appoint one participant from their aspect to behave because the designated batter, which means they will bat, however not area or bowl.
If a staff opts to make use of a delegated batter, they need to additionally title a delegated fielder. This participant isn’t allowed to bowl, however they could be a wicketkeeper.
Captains who select to appoint a delegated batter should make the choice earlier than the bat flip.
Massive Bash League basic supervisor Alastair Dobson stated the rule offers groups “extra strategic choices” and creates “new dynamics for followers to take pleasure in”.
Former Australia Take a look at captain Ricky Ponting stated it might permit ageing stars to play within the match for longer and in addition combine kids sooner.
He additionally believes it might encourage extra Australia Take a look at gamers to function within the competitors by lowering their threat of choosing up an damage whereas fielding.
“I believe it may very well be used for somebody like Travis Head, a returning worldwide participant who has had a giant summer season already,” he advised 7 Cricket.
“I would virtually really feel embarrassed to not be on the market and with the ability to give one thing within the area. If I missed out with the bat, I would need to make an impression within the area.”
The Indian Premier League has an impact player rule which permits groups to swap in considered one of 4 named substitutes throughout a match.
The BBL had an analogous X-Factor player rule between 2020 and 2022, which allowed groups to call two substitutes, considered one of which may very well be used on the 10-over mark of the primary innings.
This text is the newest from BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything staff.
